Answer 3 for DNP 810 Identify a method that uses evidence-based data to support new or innovative ways to care for the aging population
Considering our aging population, healthcare shortages, and potential stress added to the healthcare system, the focus needs to shift to prevention instead of illness. Only 8% of Americans participate in preventative screenings (Batarseh et al., 2020). By taking a proactive approach and addressing the social determinants of health, the chronic disease burden can be reduced. One method that can bridge this gap is increased utilization of advanced practice providers across disciplines, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who can provide comprehensive holistic care to an aging population.
Incorporating advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners or physician assistants), especially in the primary care setting can help people age with grace. NPs have the training to perform around 90% of the care that a primary care physician can perform (Fraser & Melillo, 2018). Healthcare savings and reduced use of acute care are a few benefits associated with advanced practice providers (Morgan et al., 2019). At this time, for nurse practitioners (NPs), only some states allow these providers to practice to the full extent of their licensure or training. In 2018, only the District of Columbia along with 22 states allowed NPs full practice authority (DePriest, et al., 2020). There is a significant shortage of primary care providers, especially in underserved or rural areas. It can be challenging to recruit and retain in these areas. Allowing advanced practice providers to work to the full extent of their licensure is an evidence-based manner to address the needs of aging areas.
It would be erroneous to not include an interdisciplinary approach. Incorporating the expertise of other disciplines, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy in the home can be instrumental to the health of an aging person. The risk for a detrimental fall increases as a person ages. By incorporating just one fall intervention, Stevens and Lee (2018) found a reduction in falls and a potential cost savings of $94-442 million annually. A holistic approach of trained professionals can address the healthcare crisis America faces with an aging population. Incorporating an interdisciplinary team working to the full extent of their licensure can reduce the healthcare burden and increase access to people in need.
References
Bataseh, F. A., Ghassib, I., Chong, D. S., Su, P. (2020). Preventive healthcare policies in the US: solutions for disease management using big data analytics. Journal of Big Data, 7(1), 38. Doi: 10.1186/s40537-020-00315-8
DePriest, K., D’Aoust, R., Samuel, L., Commodore-Mensah, Y., Hanson, G. & Slade, E. P. (2020). Nurse practitioners’ workforce outcomes under implementation of full practice authority.
Fraser, M. A. & Melillo, C. (2018). Expanding the scope of practice for APRNs: a systematic review of the cost analysis used. Nursing Economic$, 36(1), 23-28.
